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Multiple Choice
Which of the following amino acids contains a positively charged (basic) side chain at physiological pH?
A
Serine
B
Leucine
C
Lysine
D
Aspartic acid
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of physiological pH: Physiological pH is typically around 7.4, which is slightly basic. At this pH, amino acids can exist in their ionized forms depending on the properties of their side chains.
Classify the amino acids based on their side chain properties: Amino acids can have acidic, basic, polar, or nonpolar side chains. Basic side chains are positively charged at physiological pH, while acidic side chains are negatively charged.
Analyze the side chains of the given amino acids: Serine has a polar hydroxyl group, Leucine has a nonpolar aliphatic side chain, Lysine has a basic side chain with an amino group, and Aspartic acid has an acidic carboxyl group.
Determine the charge of the side chains at physiological pH: At pH 7.4, Lysine's amino group is protonated, making it positively charged. Aspartic acid's carboxyl group is deprotonated, making it negatively charged. Serine and Leucine do not have charged side chains at this pH.
Conclude that Lysine is the amino acid with a positively charged (basic) side chain at physiological pH, based on its chemical structure and ionization behavior.